Macro Solutions, already a recognized woman-owned company, attained its Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) certification in late 2003 and it's 8(a) certification in late 2004. These certifications enable emerging companies, like Macro Solutions, to compete for a larger share of Federal, State and Local procurements, in both a prime contracting and subcontracting capacity. We are very pleased to be a part of this program, and look forward to experiencing the many opportunities for growth that an SDB certification provide. The SBA administers two particular business assistance programs for small disadvantaged businesses (SDBs). These programs are the 8(a) Business Development Program and the Small Disadvantaged Business Certification Program. While the 8(a) Program offers a broad scope of assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged firms, SDB certification strictly pertains to benefits in Federal procurement. Companies which are 8(a) firms automatically qualify for SDB certification. Today’s 8(a) Business Development Program has been strengthened and improved to be a truly effective business development vehicle. New regulations permit 8(a) companies to form beneficial teaming partnerships and allow Federal agencies to streamline the contracting process. New rules make it easier for non-minority firms to participate by proving their social disadvantage. Benefits of the Program Participants can receive sole-source contracts, up to a ceiling of $3 million for goods and services and $5 million for manufacturing. While SBA helps 8(a) firms build their competitive and institutional know-how, the agency also encourages them to participate in competitive acquisitions. Federal acquisition policies encourage Federal agencies to award a certain percentage of their contracts to SDBs. To speed up the award process, the SBA has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with 25 Federal agencies allowing them to contract directly with certified 8(a) firms. Recent changes permit 8(a) firms to form joint ventures and teams to bid on contracts. This enhances the ability of 8(a) firms to perform larger prime contracts and overcome the effects of contract bundling, the combining of two or more contracts together into one large contract. Macro Solutions welcomes your questions and comments. Please contact us at 703-527-9400 #0 or email us at macrofeedback@macrosolutions.com